Slow Cooker Steak Bites: 2 Easy Weeknight Wins

Slow cooker steak bites have become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels special without the fuss. I remember the first time I tried making them; I was amazed at how incredibly tender the steak came out, practically melting in my mouth. The aroma of savory marinade and garlic filling my kitchen instantly made me feel cozy and happy. Learning how to make steak bites in slow cooker was a game-changer for my busy schedule. Now, I can enjoy these juicy, flavorful morsels with minimal effort, making them perfect for a quick dinner or even an appetizer. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Steak Bites

You’re going to adore this recipe for so many reasons:

• Incredible Flavor: The slow cooking process locks in a rich, savory taste that’s simply irresistible.
• Minimal Prep Time: Seriously, it takes just about 15 minutes to prep everything before it goes into the slow cooker.
• Budget-Friendly Meal: Using sirloin steak and simple pantry staples makes this a cost-effective way to enjoy a delicious meal.
• Family-Approved: Even picky eaters love these tender, bite-sized pieces of steak.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and cooked with lean meat, these are a healthier choice for dinner.
• So Easy: These easy slow cooker steak bites practically make themselves, freeing up your time.
• Versatile: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, these bites fit the bill perfectly.
• Effortless Cleanup: The slow cooker does most of the work, meaning less mess in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Steak Bites

Gather these simple ingredients for a fantastic meal. The star of the show is the 2 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces; this cut stays tender even with slow cooking, making it perfect for sirloin steak bites slow cooker success. We’ll use a 1 large onion, diced for a sweet base and 3 cloves garlic, minced for that essential savory punch. The marinade is key to that deep flavor, featuring 1 cup beef broth for moisture, 1/4 cup soy sauce for that crucial umami depth, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce for a tangy, complex note. A touch of 1 tablespoon olive oil helps with sautéing, while 1 tablespoon cornstarch will thicken our sauce beautifully. We’ll also add 1 tablespoon brown sugar for a hint of sweetness, 1 teaspoon paprika for color and mild flavor, and 1 teaspoon black pepper for a bit of warmth. Don’t forget Salt to taste! For a fresh finish, you can garnish with optional garnishes: fresh parsley or green onions.

How to Make Slow Cooker Steak Bites

1. Step 1: Begin by cutting your 2 pounds sirloin steak into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch pieces. Trim away any large pieces of excess fat, but leave a little for flavor.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 large onion, diced, and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly softened, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant – you’ll smell that delicious aroma!
3. Step 3: While the onions are sautéing, prepare the marinade. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 cup beef broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and salt to taste. This mixture creates our flavorful base for the slow cooker marinated steak bites.
4. Step 4: Place the prepared steak bites into your slow cooker. Add the sautéed onions and garlic on top of the steak. Pour the entire marinade mixture over the steak and vegetables. Give it a gentle stir to ensure the steak is well-coated, making these wonderful slow cooker marinated steak bites.
5. Step 5: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. For tender results, cook on the LOW setting for 4-6 hours, or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The exact time will depend on your slow cooker’s model and how small you cut the steak. You’re looking for the steak to be fork-tender.
6. Step 6: About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, prepare the sauce thickener. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker with the steak bites. This will help create a richer, thicker sauce for your slow cooker marinated steak bites.

7. Step 7: Once the cooking time is complete and the sauce has thickened, give the steak bites a final gentle stir to ensure they are all coated in the delicious sauce.
8. Step 8: Taste the sauce and adjust any seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your incredibly tender and flavorful slow cooker steak bites!

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Steak Bites

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these truly exceptional:

• For the most tender results, don’t overcrowd your slow cooker. Give the steak bites enough space to cook evenly.
• If you have time, marinating the steak for a few hours (or even overnight) in the refrigerator before cooking can enhance the flavor even more.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper makes all the difference.
• Consider adding tender vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for a complete meal.

What’s the secret to perfect slow cooker steak bites?

The key is using the right cut of steak and not overcooking it. Sirloin is a great choice. Also, making sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker ensures each piece gets tender and flavorful, leading to truly juicy slow cooker steak bites.

Can I make slow cooker steak bites ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the steak and marinade the night before and store it in the refrigerator in the slow cooker insert. Just start the cooking process in the morning.

How do I avoid common mistakes with slow cooker steak bites?

Avoid using lean cuts of steak that can dry out. Also, resist the urge to stir too frequently, as this can break up the steak pieces and make them mushy. For more recipe ideas, check out our full recipe collection.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Steak Bites

These savory bites are incredibly versatile! They’re fantastic served over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, soaking up that delicious sauce. For a complete meal, try tossing in some slow cooker steak bites with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking. They also make an excellent appetizer for game day or parties, perhaps with a side of ranch or blue cheese dip. I love serving them alongside a simple green salad for a balanced dinner. You might also enjoy our Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole.

Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Steak Bites

Let’s break down what you’re getting with these delicious bites. This nutritional information is based on approximately 6 oz of steak bites per serving, but remember, your exact portion size and any added garnishes can affect the final numbers.

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can refer to resources like the MyPlate initiative.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Steak Bites

Got leftovers of these amazing slow cooker beef steak bites? Lucky you! Once the steak bites have cooled slightly, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep perfectly in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to save them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re sealed well to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating is a breeze! For a single serving, I like to gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. You can also microwave them, but be sure to heat in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid drying them out. For a larger batch, the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) works wonders. This ensures your slow cooker steak bites storage efforts pay off with delicious results every time. You might also like our Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Steak Bites

Can I use a different cut of steak for these slow cooker steak bites?

While sirloin is my favorite for these slow cooker steak bites because of its tenderness, you can certainly experiment. Chuck roast or even ribeye can work, but they might require slightly different cooking times. Just remember to trim any excess fat before cooking for the best texture.

What if I don’t have beef broth? Can I substitute something else?

Absolutely! If you’re out of beef broth, chicken broth or even vegetable broth can work in a pinch for your crock pot steak bites. Water mixed with a bouillon cube is another option. The goal is to add liquid and flavor, so use what you have on hand.

How do I make sure my slow cooker steak bites are tender and not tough?

The key is not to overcook them! For the most tender results, aim for the lower end of the cooking time range, especially if your slow cooker runs hot. Also, cutting the steak against the grain before cooking helps break down the muscle fibers, ensuring a more tender bite. This is crucial for achieving truly tender slow cooker steak bites.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the steak?

Yes, you definitely can! Hearty vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or onions can be added at the beginning with the steak. Softer vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms should be added during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from getting too mushy. This is a great way to make a complete meal in one pot!

Variations of Slow Cooker Steak Bites You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, it’s fun to play around with different flavors and preparations. Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the marinade for a bit of heat.
• Garlic Butter Bliss: For irresistible slow cooker garlic butter steak bites, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of butter and extra minced garlic during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make these gluten-free.
• Broiler Finish: For a slightly crispier exterior, carefully transfer the cooked steak bites to a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

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